Conceptual analysis and measurement of the construct of ego-resiliency

Abstract

This investigation explored the meaning, measurement, and validity of the ego-resiliency construct (ER, J.H. Block & J Block) in 3 samples. Study 1 explored the internal structure of ER in observer and self-report data, and the development of a self-report measure is described. Study 2 tested convergent and discriminant relations of ER with personality attributes. Study 3 investigated implications of ER for adjustment and effective functioning in adulthood. Components of ER obtained through exploratory factor analyses--confident optimism, productive and autonomous activity, interpersonal warmth and insight, and skilled expressiveness--formed a unitary construct and mirrored the relations found between ER and other trait domains. Across samples, there were strong relations between ER and effective functioning in diverse areas of life. ER is discussed in relation to generally accepted criteria of adjustment and effective functioning.